Purple and Paws Chow Chows, Aussies, Saint Bernards, Golden Retrievers, and Wheaten Terriers…what do all these dogs have in common? Double coats. When the words “double coat” are uttered, most people picture a dog with thick, dense hair. The truth is some breeds with double coats don’t need an excessive amount of grooming while others do. Here are some tips for grooming a dog with a double coat.
Figure Out What Kind of Coat Your Dog Has
Many breeds sport a double coat but the amount of hair and grooming needed varies from dog to dog. The Border Collie, a herding dog, typically has a thick coat to provide insulation for when the weather is bad because this breed is usually outside working. Scottish Terriers, on the other hand, tend to have a thinner, wirier coat. But remember, all dogs are different and just because one Border Collie has a thick coat doesn’t mean all the others will, too. So be sure to check with your vet who will help you figure out exactly what kind of double coat your dog has.
Use a Professional
Some dogs sit quietly as their owner brushes away clumps of hair from their double coat; others run and hide as soon as they see the brush come out. If your dog is a runner, it might be a good idea to use a professional groomer. Professional groomers are trained to work with all kinds of dogs and they’ll be able to keep your pooch’s coat nice and healthy without hurting them.
Groom Your Dog Yourself
If your dog doesn’t mind playing client to your stylist, by all means go ahead and groom your dog yourself. Again, if your pooch has a double coat that falls on the thinner side, you won’t have much work to do. Dogs with thicker double coats will need much more time and maintenance, especially during the two times of year they’re shedding.
Wear Protective Gear
No matter if your dog has a thick double coat or a thin double coat, hair is going to be in abundance. Wear either light-colored clothes or old clothes to groom your pooch and always, always wear a mask to cover your mouth and nose. We all know dog hair goes everywhere and you really don’t want to be inhaling it.
Owning a dog with a double coat doesn’t have to be an issue. Just follow these tips for a happy and healthy-looking pooch!
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